About World Refugee Day 2008
© UNHCR photo
On June 20, we celebrate World Refugee Day. This year, events around the world focus on the fundamental need for protection. For some, this means economic security; for others, protection is freedom from violence and persecution. On World Refugee Day, we turn our attention to the millions of refugees who live without material, social and legal protection.
Since its foundation in 1951, UNHCR has protected tens of millions of refugees. For us, protection consists of tangible improvements in the lives of forcibly displaced people - from the provision of food and shelter to support for those lacking legal status or those wishing to return to their home countries. On World Refugee Day, we commemorate this vital engagement.
Protection is also about raising awareness. We cannot protect refugees if their plight remains invisible. On World Refugee Day, we will highlight the universal nature of protection. Not only are refugees protected all around the globe, but the responsibility for protection is equally global.
Ultimately, protection is a challenge that knows no borders. Neither can it be left to a single agency to provide. On World Refugee Day, we are launching a global call for action. We want to promote engagement at the grassroots level, in local communities, workplaces and online. Only through a global network of supporters can we meet the manifold needs of protection.
How can you help?
Online social utilities provide excellent tools for advocacy. Become a fan on Facebook, support our cause and share our videos, photos and latest news with your friends. You can also find us on MySpace, YouTube and Flickr.
-
Guidance on UNHCR's engagement with national human rights institutions.
23 Oct 2020 -
Conference on Sustaining Support for the Rohingya Refugee Response 22 October 2020
22 Oct 2020 Joint Closing Announcement by Co-Hosts -
'Give us a seat at the table and we'll change the world'
22 Oct 2020 At the High Commissioner's Dialogue on Protection Challenges, participants say those who are forcibly displaced are eager and qualified to help rebuild communities devastated by COVID-19. -
728th meeting
22 Oct 2020 -
Report on the work of the Standing Committee (A/AC.96/1208)
22 Oct 2020 -
How do you protect refugees in a pandemic?
22 Oct 2020 -
Statement - Initiative for Child Rights in the Global Compacts
21 Oct 2020 -
International community must act with 'urgency' to end crisis in Central Sahel
21 Oct 2020 UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi tells conference that COVID-19 adds a new threat to a region already grappling with record numbers forced to flee their homes. -
Germany - Statement Opening High Commissioner Dialogue
21 Oct 2020